Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. declared that “life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’” At Atmos Energy, that question drives us to make a difference in the places we call home.  

Honoring Dr. King’s legacy and embracing Jan. 17 as a National Day of Service, our team members remain committed to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities and our focus on ending food insecurity. And even though many in-person volunteer opportunities have transitioned to virtual platforms, we quickly adapted to this new way of giving back. 

As recently as two years ago, childhood hunger had fallen to its lowest level in decades. Unfortunately, the pandemic hindered that progress and the number of children living with hunger skyrocketed. Local food banks and community action agencies across the country jumped into action, supporting area school districts with meal delivery services, drive-up sites, and equipment such as coolers, delivery trucks, personal protective equipment, shelf-stable food, and boxes for packing meals. 

To ensure that students received easy access to nutritious meals and healthy snacks, our employees also acted quickly. We safely distribute curbside meals to students and their families, organize ready-made dinners, fill school backpacks with nonperishable foods for the weekend, and fulfill Amazon wish lists.    

Today, as we reflect on Dr. King’s life and his achievements, we ask that you join his call to action and volunteer to assist those who are food insecure.  No act of service is too small, and together we can fuel bright minds and healthy futures while working to achieve hunger-free and healthy communities.  

Liz Beauchamp is the vice president of governmental and public affairs at Atmos Energy.

To learn more about Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities, please visit atmosenergy.com/fueling-safe-and-thriving-communities.